Rinaldo Calheiros

Origin

Maceió, AL

Years Active

1951–1998

Genres

bolero, romantic music, MPB

Instruments

vocals

Biography

Rinaldo Calheiros was a renowned Brazilian singer whose career reached its peak during the 1950s and 1960s, earning him the affectionate title of "the voice that moves" (a voz que emociona). Born in Maceió, Alagoas, he initially pursued a military career and studied at the Aeronautics Technical School. After being medically discharged due to a car accident, he began his musical journey on Rádio Poty in Natal, where his vocal talent and charm quickly established him as a local romantic idol.

In 1951, he joined the Trio Acaiaca as the lead vocalist, performing alongside Chico Elion and João Juvanklin. Relocating to São Paulo in 1960, Calheiros recorded numerous albums for prominent labels such as Continental, CBS, and Columbia, while also collaborating with renowned ensembles like the Mocambo and Jazz Paraguary orchestras. His partnership with singer Silvana on a 1962 Copacabana LP stands as a high point in his extensive discography, which includes multiple successful records that defined an era of Brazilian romantic music akin to contemporaries like Agostinho dos Santos.

Throughout his prolific career, Calheiros released roughly ten LPs during the 1960s alone, solidifying his legacy in the golden age of Brazilian radio and romantic song. He continued recording into the 1970s with labels like Philips, Som Hi-Fi, and Beverly, leaving behind a rich musical heritage. He passed away in Rio de Janeiro on May 5, 2014, remembered fondly by fans of classic Brazilian ballads.

Discography

• Em Tudo Existe o Amor (1961)
• Silvana (4) e Rinaldo Calheiros – Ouvindo-te com Amor (1962)
• Uma Lágrima Tua (1963)
• O Seu Adeus (1964)
• A Voz que Emociona (1966)
• Com Amor (1974)
• 12 Vezes Sucesso (2025)
• El Choclo
• Amor